Edwin Cushing facts for kids

Edwin Merrill "Ned" Cushing (born September 7, 1830 – died December 7, 1903) was a talented musician and important citizen from Staunton, Virginia. He played the tenor horn, a type of brass instrument. Ned Cushing also worked as an auctioneer and a coroner. A coroner is someone who investigates deaths. He was known for knowing a lot about Staunton's history.

A Life of Music and Service

Ned Cushing was born on September 7, 1830. His parents were Merrill Cushing and Anne Barnes. He later married Betty McCoy.

Joining the Stonewall Brigade Band

Ned loved music. He helped start a famous group called the Stonewall Brigade Band. He was a founding member and the very first president of the band. He worked with David Drake to form the band. They even recruited A. J. Turner to be its first director.

Serving His Town

Ned Cushing was also a leader in his town. He was an alderman in Staunton. An alderman is like a town council member. He served in this role in 1853, 1854, and 1856. His special gavel, a small hammer used to keep order at meetings, is still kept today.

Ned Cushing and the Civil War

Before the American Civil War, Ned Cushing was a sergeant major. This was a high rank in the local military group. When the war began, he joined the quartermaster department. This group was in charge of supplying the army.

He later helped with making iron in 1863. Iron was very important for making weapons and tools during the war. After this, he went back to his role as a quartermaster. He was a very helpful member of the Confederate supply team. At one point, he also helped take care of people in need. The Stonewall Brigade Band was part of the 5th Virginia Infantry Regiment during the war.

His Final Years

Ned Cushing died on December 7, 1903. He passed away from a lung illness called acute pneumonia. He is buried in Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton.